Chris Rea had recently lost his driving privileges when he came up with Driving Home For Christmas.

The 74 year old songwriter is most closely associated with the 1986 festive favourite, which he originally wrote with Van Morrison in mind. He has described the track as a song rooted in frustration, yet one that also carries a sense of warmth and reassurance.

Speaking to the Daily Express newspaper, he said: “It’s funny, because I’d just been banned from driving when I wrote it.

“But I was feeling good at the time too, and people say they can hear that infectious feelgood mood when they hear it.

“It’s got a story everyone can relate to: you’re stuck in traffic, when all you want to do is to get home and be with your loved ones. Everyone in the country is doing the same thing at the same time.

“It’s a frustrating song, but it’s also hopeful and comforting.”

Chris also shared that he still finds humour in performing the song while sitting behind the wheel alongside other drivers.

He said: “I still sing it at other drivers when I’m stuck on the motorway. They love that!”

Over the years, the musician has faced a number of serious health challenges, including a stroke in 2016 that affected his speech, as well as a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

His treatment resulted in diabetes, which now requires him to administer daily injections.

Despite everything, Chris says he is gradually getting stronger and has no intention of stepping away from music, explaining: “There’s plenty of music left in me yet.”

He added: “I’ve been trying a few different things out: long blues and jazz instrumentals. I’m going back to my roots and seeing where they take me next.”